[FallenCow]

I'm just getting into the hifi aspect of headphones (usually prefer speakers when possible) and have been doing a TON of research here on the forums, but I would definitely like to get everyone's opinion on the best budget amp to drive Lawton LA7000s. The source is my PC with an Auzentech Prelude card. I'm looking for an amp in the $500 range (give or take) and don't mind used if I can find it in a reasonable time frame.

Here's my short list so far (in no particular order):
- Gilmore Lite
- Audio GD C2C
- Audio GD C2C w/ upgrades
- Hifiman EF5
- Headroom Desktop AMP/DAC

I would prefer to go for a dedicated amp in case I add a DAC. In that vain, would I see noticeable gains by adding a DAC (something like a DacMagic) or would the Prelude be fine?

 

[koc]

I have Auzen forte - DACMagic - EF-5 - D7000

sound like heaven , cant be happy more

 

[FallenCow]

Were u able compare the EF5 to any pure SS amps? Can u provide any more detail about that setup ?What led u topick those components? Thx

 

[mrarroyo]

You have various options, IMO the Denons benefit from SS or a Hybrid amp more so than a tube amp. For example:

1. Used Rudistor NX-02 or NX-03.
2. Used Musical Fidelity X-Can V2 or V3.
3. Graham Slee Solo SRGII w/ PSU1.
4. HiFiMAN EF1 or EF2.

Good luck.

 

[musicman59]

I second mrarroyo. I have the D7000 ans sound great in my Rudistor amplifiers.

 

[FallenCow]

Quote:

Originally Posted by mrarroyo /img/forum/go_quote.gif You have various options, IMO the Denons benefit from SS or a Hybrid amp more so than a tube amp. For example: 1. Used Rudistor NX-02 or NX-03. 2. Used Musical Fidelity X-Can V2 or V3. 3. Graham Slee Solo SRGII w/ PSU1. 4. HiFiMAN EF1 or EF2. Good luck.

Is your list from best to worst? I have seen some old posts on the forum that weren't very flattering regarding Rudistor's service, parts, etc. Any validity to those?

 

[Covenant]

Personally, I'd go M^3 for Denons. They synergise well, as the M^3 is fast, refined and slightly warm, but not all that punchy/bassy (without bassboost, anyway), but the Denons being naturally bassy cans don't need any additional emphasis there from the amp.

 

[Jodet]

The new Corda Concerto should be pretty good:

http://www.meier-audio.homepage.t-online.de/

The Blue Circle headamps start at $549 (list) for the Hat Peed Thingie with basic power supply. They are outstanding amps.

Blue Circle Audio

 

[MacedonianHero]

I`m a big fan of tubes...

MAD Ear+HD (mine sounds amazing with my D7000s)
Woo Audio

 

[mrarroyo]

Quote:

Originally Posted by FallenCow /img/forum/go_quote.gif Is your list from best to worst? I have seen some old posts on the forum that weren't very flattering regarding Rudistor's service, parts, etc. Any validity to those?

My list was in random order, I also included amps which I have heard w/ Denons. As far as the comments on Rudistor Service/Parts I have no comment. The unit I owned felt solid, looked good, and sounded good.

 

[jyle_t]

The D7000 sounds great with Graham Slee amps, Novo or Solo SRG.

 

[JesseDodds]

Anyone know if the HeadAmp GS-1 is a good match for the D7000?

 

[bdr529]

I am sure its fine, but be warned there is probably a long wait for it with all the pico slim stuff going on.

 

[FallenCow]

If I understand it correctly, it sounds like all of these amps are at about the same level of performance and it comes down to what specific sound I'm looking for and availability. That makes the decisions so much tougher!

Any recommendations for brick and mortar locations around Orange County, CA to audition amps? How about online shops with forgiving return policies in case I do not like an amp?

 

[tke398]

I can easily recommend the Musical Fidelity X-can V8 and even the $200 Little Dot MKIII sounds great with them.